HOMA BAY, Kenya – Police have arrested 40 suspected goons accused of looting businesses and damaging property during protests in Homa Bay Town following the arrest of Kassim Abdi.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem said the suspects were arrested between Friday and Sunday as police and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers intensified operations to restore order in the town.
The arrests followed Thursday night’s protests, during which groups of youth allegedly broke into several business premises and stole goods worth millions of shillings.
Koilem said the suspects were among those accused of turning the protest over Abdi’s arrest into an opportunity to loot shops and destroy property.
Police Recover Stolen Goods, Crude Weapons
Police and DCI officers have been conducting day and night raids in various estates across Homa Bay Town in a bid to apprehend those linked to the violence.
Koilem said officers had recovered several stolen items and crude weapons from the suspects during the ongoing operation.
The 40 suspects are being held at Homa Bay County Police Station and are expected to be arraigned in court on Monday.
The police commander said the crackdown would continue for another week, with the operation expected to be extended to other towns across Homa Bay County.
Abdi Arrest Linked To Political Rally Violence
Abdi was arrested alongside seven members of his team over alleged links to violence witnessed in Homa Bay during a political rally hosted by the Linda Mwananchi faction on August 16, 2026.
His arrest triggered protests in Homa Bay Town on Thursday night, with some demonstrators allegedly engaging in looting and destruction of property.
Police have since stepped up efforts to identify and arrest those suspected of participating in the unrest.
The ongoing operation is aimed at recovering stolen property, apprehending suspects, and restoring security for businesses and residents.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the 40 suspects, and the allegations against them are yet to be tested in court.
